Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
Introducing the SSP
The SSP is an evidence-based listening therapy designed by Dr. Stephen Porges* and Unyte Health** to reduce sound sensitivities and improve auditory processing, behavioural state regulation, and social engagement behaviours through filtered music.
As a practical application of Polyvagal Theory, the SSP acts as a non-invasive vagal nerve stimulator, helping to retune the nervous system to better support connection, collaboration, and resilience.
The SSP involves listening to specially filtered music through headphones alongside a provider, either in person or remotely.
Suitable for children and adults (although I only work with adults), SSP has demonstrated benefits for individuals with trauma, chronic pain, chronic health conditions, autism, hyperactivity and attention, anxiety, sensory processing differences, and more.​
Highlights of the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP):
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A 5-hour therapeutic process developed and patented by Dr. Stephen Porges, author of the Polyvagal Theory
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Designed to reduce sound sensitivity and improve auditory processing and behavioral state regulation
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Activates the client’s social engagement system, helping to accelerate and enhance therapeutic outcomes
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Supports physiological state regulation, allowing for greater resilience
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The SSP can be combined with and is supportive of other therapies that you may already be engaged in such as IFS, EMDR, CBT, DBT, counselling, massage, Yoga, OT, etc
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*Dr. Stephen Porges is an American Psychologist and Professor of Psychiatry at the University of North Carolina, USA
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**Unyte Health is a US based neuro-tech company with proprietary, clinical-grade solutions
How it works & benefits
The music of the SSP has been specially filtered to highlight frequencies of sound that typically make us feel safe.
These types of frequencies can be found in everyday sounds, such as:
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Talking, laughter
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Water flowing
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Musical instruments
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Wind, leaves rustling
Some people’s nervous systems have a harder time interpreting safety on their own. This can include (but is not limited to) individuals who:
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Have experienced difficult life events
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Live with an illness or injury
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Have sensory, learning or developmental differences
The SSP helps restore this ability by sending “cues of safety” directly to the nervous system, so you can feel more calm, engaged and balanced.
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Information about clinical trials on the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) and the science behind SSP can be found in this white paper.
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To find out more about SSP click here.
